Another blood sample is taken 2 hours later to check your blood glucose level. If you are pregnant, your doctor might test you for gestational diabetes with the glucose challenge test. In this test, a health care professional will take a sample of your blood 1 hour after you drink a sweet liquid containing glucose. If your blood glucose level is too high’135 mg/dL to 140 mg/dL or higher’you may need to return for an oral glucose tolerance test while fasting. The A1C test is a blood test that provides your average levels of blood glucose over the last 3 months.
CGM may be used to assess glycemic target as noted in Recommendation 6.5b and Fig. Certain types of hemoglobin, called hemoglobin variants, can interfere with measuring A1C levels. Most A1C tests used in the United States are not affected by the most common variants. If your A1C test results and blood glucose levels do not match, your doctor should consider that the A1C test may not be a reliable test for you. Anyone who has symptoms of diabetes should be tested for the disease. Some people will not have any symptoms but may have risk factors for type 2 diabetes and need to be tested.
Once blood sugars are in the target range, their A1C should also be on target. There are some times when it is appropriate to adjust the blood sugar target ranges for a person with diabetes. We will see how these factors impact target ranges for your blood sugars when you have diabetes. We will learn that target ranges can be individualized based on the factors above. We will learn how target ranges help to predict the A1C levels. If you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, testing your blood glucose daily is important.
In addition to increased complications for the mother, an infant born to a mother with gestational diabetes is at an increased risk of being born with a high birth weight (9 pounds or more). Later on in life, the infant may be more prone to becoming obese, and to developing Type 2 Diabetes. In a person without diabetes, the body makes enough insulin to bring down the blood sugar after a meal.
You may, for example, need to check it once a day and before or after exercise. If you take insulin, you may need to check your blood sugar multiple times a day. During this process, a health professional will adapt a person’s care plan, including their glucose ranges. These can include age or any additional health issues an individual may have. A healthcare team works with a patient to design a tailored care plan covering their medications, blood sugar checks, insulin dosage, and other details that will allow them to manage their condition. The ADVANCE trial randomly assigned 11,140 participants to standard (targeting A1C based on local guidelines) or intensive glucose control therapy aimed at reducing A1C =6.5% (23).
When it comes to managing type 2 diabetes, one crucial aspect is keeping blood sugar levels within a specific target range. But what exactly is this target range and why is it so important for individuals with type 2 diabetes?
Before attending an appointment with a doctor or nurse to discuss a care plan, a person may wish to have a set of questions ready to ask. They may want to write them down in case they forget any of them. If the care plan belongs to a young person living with type 2 diabetes, the section will also describe the things they can do themselves and the things a caregiver needs to do for them. It will also cover when a person should perform blood glucose checks, and indicate the part of the body most suitable for the test, such as the finger, thigh, calf, or forearm. A blood sample for a random plasma glucose test can be taken at any time.
What is the target range for type 2 diabetes?
The target range for blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes is typically between 80-130 mg/dL before meals and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after starting a meal. These values may vary depending on individual circumstances and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Why is it important to stay within the target range?
- Preventing complications: Keeping blood sugar levels within the target range helps reduce the risk of developing complications associated with diabetes such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and eye problems.
- Improving overall health: Maintaining optimal blood sugar levels can lead to better energy levels, improved mood, and overall well-being.
- Managing symptoms: By staying within the target range, individuals with type 2 diabetes can better control symptoms such as frequent urination, thirst, and fatigue.
How can individuals achieve their target range?
- Diet: Following a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity and aid in controlling blood sugar levels.
- Medication: In some cases, medication such as oral hypoglycemic agents or insulin may be prescribed to help maintain blood sugar levels within the target range.
It’s essential for individuals with type 2 diabetes to work closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalized plan to achieve and maintain blood sugar levels within the target range. Regular monitoring, healthy lifestyle choices, and proactive management are key components of successful diabetes management.
